Getting Started

Resources for New Group Members

This page contains resources and information to help new students and postdocs get started with research in computational astrophysics. Content is being developed and will be added soon.

Essential Background

Recommended Textbooks

TODO: Add list of recommended textbooks for:

  • Astrophysical fluid dynamics
  • Galaxy formation
  • Computational methods
  • Plasma physics

Key Papers

TODO: Compile essential review papers and foundational works in:

  • Circumgalactic medium
  • Galactic winds
  • Turbulence in astrophysics
  • Cosmic ray physics

Computational Tools

Software and Codes

TODO: Add information about:

  • Simulation codes we use
  • Analysis tools and pipelines
  • Visualization software
  • Version control and collaboration tools

Computing Resources

TODO: Information about accessing:

  • Local computing clusters
  • National supercomputing facilities
  • Data storage and management

Research Skills

Professional Development

TODO: Resources for:

  • Scientific writing
  • Giving presentations
  • Proposal writing
  • Career planning

Group Practices

Communication Philosophy

Core promise: I promise to be open and honest with you, and to listen with the same openness and respect to whatever you want to share with me.

If something isn't working — work quality, pace, or communication — I'll say so directly and respectfully. I won't let concerns sit unspoken.

You don't need to read between the lines. If I haven't raised an issue, you can assume we're fine.

Reach out whenever you need — email or Slack as often as you like with questions, ideas, or updates. If we need to tune the cadence or ask for more prep before a message, I'll tell you.

This goes both ways. If you don't like something I'm doing, if my approach doesn't work for you, if something I or someone else did made you uncomfortable — or you're bored, stuck, or just found something funny — tell me. I'll listen with openness, honesty, and no judgment.

The goal is a safe, clear, trusting working relationship so we can focus on doing good science together.

Meetings and Communication

TODO: Information about:

  • Group meeting schedule
  • Journal clubs
  • Slack/communication channels
  • Collaboration guidelines

Contact

If you're a new group member and need additional resources or have questions, please contact me:

Email: dbf233@nyu.edu